I live in Texas. What size air condition unit do I need for a home that is approximately 1500 square feet?

Question

I live in Texas. What size air condition unit do I need for a home that is approximately 1500 square feet?

Answer 1

There are too many variables to have that answered here.  Here's just a few...

1.  How well insulated is the house?

2.  How many windows (and what size)?

3.  Are there vaulted ceilings in the house-vaulted ceiling require a large unit due to the increased air volume

If it's a well insulated house with energy efficient windows, non-vaulted, a 3 ton would be the absolute minimum size that you need.  It would be worth the $$ to have a professional come in and calculate the "heat loss" for you home.  Some HVAC companies will do this for free, for a chance that you might choose them for the job.

Answer 2

One 2 1/2 - 3 ton central air conditioning unit should handle it.

Answer 3

Carolath got it right, but I would not go less than 3 ton unit, 36000 BTU,  anything less, will run all the time on hot days.  I think manufacture over rate the cooling capacity of some units.  Shop around and get high EER rating it will save you money.

Answer 4

New build?  Old build?  One story?  Make sure your attic is well ventilated, this will make a HUGE difference.  

When replacing the unit, make sure that you replace the copper lines.  old buildings used smaller ID copper.  All of the new spec's for 13 seer AC's need the bigger line to be effecient.